All that can be asked of anyone is that they do their best, and talented Amanda Turnbull trained Tintin In America (NZ) gelding Zee Dana is certainly doing just that. Winning four of his five starts, the latest a dominant four metre victory in the Group Three Ready To Run Graduate Stakes at Menangle on August 15, Zee Dana has accomplished every task set him to date, and regular driver Nathan Jack is pleased with his progress.
“He’s getting better and better – really learning to settle, which will help him,” Nathan says. He’s a lovely natured horse, friendly – too friendly maybe. He can be a bit of a pest,” he smiles. “He was a really strong colt, but now he’s a gelding he’s easier to handle.”
Bought for $71,000 at the Garrards 2YO Trialling Sale at Menangle in December 2014 after running the fastest trial of the day (last 800m in 55.3, final quarters in 27.6 and 27.7 seconds respectively) Zee Dana soon settled in to the Turnbull stables in Shepparton and has been putting his best hoof forward ever since.
And the gelding is certainly backed by some star power with champion NRL player Brett Stewart a part owner of the two year old.
Zee Dana’s next assignment is the semi finals of the Woodlands Stud Breeders Crown at Ballarat on Saturday August 22nd.
“He’s got a great bunch of owners who are having a fair bit of fun with him. If he gets a good draw he’ll be right in it, but if he draws the car park we’ll need some luck, just like anyone else. He’s a horse who can make his own luck and he’ll need to; it’s a pretty strong group this year,” muses Nathan. Whatever the circumstances, Zee Dana will be making every effort in this year’s Breeders Crown Series.
Approved By Dean Baring www.harnessbred.com
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